Issues encountered at
the Abandonment Stage
The key to a successful well and rigless well abandonment is the selection of seals that will secure the well long after the abandonment is complete, reducing corporate liability and potential environmental impact. Traditionally elastomer and cement plugs have been used with varying degrees of success and reliability. Over time, they may deteriorate, particularly in corrosive environments, due to the materials from which they are manufactured. Conventional bridge plugs also have very small expansion ratios, limiting them for use in wells with restrictions. Alternatively, high expansion plugs, such as inflatable packers, do not have the differential pressure capabilities required for many well abandonments, nor do they provide a gas tight seal.